Kilombero Sugar Company Limited has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting vulnerable communities by donating 4,000kg of sugar under Phase I of its second-year commitment for the 2026/27 financial year, with Phase II expected to be held later next year. The donation forms part of the company's ongoing three-year partnership with the Franciscan Sisters of Charity through the Upendo Sisters' Bakery, which produces and distributes free bread to vulnerable groups across Kilombero District.
The contribution is part of Kilombero Sugar's 2026/27 commitment under a collaboration established in November 2025, through which the company pledged to donate 23 tonnes of sugar over three years to support the community-driven Free Bread Initiative.
Launched in 2001 and managed by the Franciscan Sisters of Charity through Upendo Sisters' Bakery, the Free Bread Initiative has been serving the Kilombero community for more than 25 years. The programme currently supports over 25 institutions and community units, including orphanages, schools, and hospitals, benefiting adolescents, orphans, patients, and other vulnerable groups.
Speaking during the handover ceremony, Victor Byemelwa, Communication and Stakeholder Relations Manager at Kilombero Sugar Company Limited, said the partnership demonstrates the importance of sustained collaboration in addressing community needs.
"Our partnership with Upendo Sisters' Bakery and the Free Bread Initiative reflects our continued commitment to supporting practical, community-led efforts that improve people's well-being. By contributing sugar to sustain bread production, we are helping an established initiative continue reaching vulnerable groups, including children and patients who depend on this support. Kilombero Sugar remains committed to embracing and supporting initiatives that positively impact our communities," said Mr. Byemelwa.
The initiative provides free bread and breakfast to vulnerable individuals, helping address food insecurity while supporting the well-being of children and other beneficiaries served through its network.
Addressing the gathering and members of the media, Kilombero District Commissioner Hon. Dunstan Kyobya commended the partnership and its impact on the community.
"The Government greatly appreciates stakeholders who contribute to addressing community needs. Today's support from Kilombero Sugar demonstrates the power of collaboration in tackling complex social challenges. This initiative began last year, and so far, the company has contributed 10 tonnes of sugar toward its 23-tonne, three-year commitment. I call upon other stakeholders to emulate Kilombero Sugar by investing in sustainable initiatives that support vulnerable communities," said Hon. Kyobya.
On her part, Sr. Raymunda Mgaya, speaking on behalf of the Free Bread Initiative, said continued support from partners is essential to sustaining the programme as demand for its services continues to grow.
"The needs of the community have increased over the years, making partnerships such as this increasingly important. We sincerely appreciate Kilombero Sugar for standing with us and helping us continue providing bread to vulnerable members of our community," said Sr. Mgaya.
Under its three-year commitment, Kilombero Sugar pledged to donate 6,000kg of sugar in 2025/26, 8,000kg in 2026/27, and 9,000kg in 2027/28, amounting to a total of 23 tonnes. The current donation of 4,000kg forms part of Phase I of the company's second-year contribution and demonstrates its continued commitment to supporting community development initiatives.
Through this partnership, Kilombero Sugar continues to support programmes that respond to local needs and contribute to the well-being of communities within its areas of operation.